Things to do in Goa

Things to do in Goa

Goa is a vibrant paradise with lots of things for you to see and explore. Discover the hypnotic nature of the jungle and swim under the iconic Dudhdagar Falls. See the countries exotic wildlife and learn about the heritage and history through the UNESCO listed Old Goa. There are plenty of exciting things to do, no matter if you are traveling as a couple, in a group or with the family.

Visit Mollem National Park and Dudhsagar Falls
There aren’t many things to do in Goa that beat a visit to Mollem National Park! Set in the Western Ghats, you’ll be going on an exciting off-road expedition in 240 square kilometres of lush forests and dense greenery. Jump in a private, air-conditioned jeep with your guide and you’ll drive along jungle trails to see the huge variety of exotic animals that call the Mollem National Park their home.

If you’ve got the same phobia as Indiana Jones, stay in your vehicle until your guide says it’s safe to get out, as the Park plays host to several varieties of snakes, including the King Cobra, hump-nosed pit viper, and the Indian rock python! There’s an extensive range of colourful birds, butterflies and mischievous macaques and monkeys to enjoy and, from the safety of your jeep, you can observe prowling panthers and tigers.

After about 20 minutes driving through the Park, you’ll be driven to the breathtaking Dudhsagar Falls. Over 1,000ft in height, these iconic waterfalls are some of the tallest and most impressive in the country. Here, you can stop for a refreshing swim in the cool lagoon at the bottom of the falls, bask in the sunshine along the river bank, and enjoy a picnic. Then, it’s off to a local spice farm to learn about how fruits, herbs and spices are grown, before sitting down to tuck into a buffet lunch of traditional Goan food.

A visit to the Mollem National Park really is one of the most fascinating and enthralling things to do Goa has to offer.

Discover local art at the Kerkar Art Complex in Goa
If you’re looking for less-adventurous, but equally rewarding things to do in Goa, a trip to the Kerkar Art Complex in Calangute is in order. Showcasing superb paintings, photographs and sculptures from local doctor-turned-artist Dr Subodh Kerkar, the complex is more than just a gallery. You can also expect to see dance performances, Goan music recitals, and even sculptors at work.

Its founder, Dr Subodh Kerkar, is the only artist in the country who uses natural materials such as bamboo, stones, and shells, to create inspiring and beautiful works of art. Recently, he created a one-kilometre-long installation, incorporating 600 Tibetan prayer flags, called ‘Unfolding of a Dream’.

Grab a bite to eat and sample a variety of flavours and spices in the Waves Restaurant and, if you’re looking for more creative things to do in Goa, get the whole family involved in an art workshop!

Crocodile spotting in Cumbarjua
For one of the more unusual things to do, Goa-style, head to the small town of Cumbarjua near the state’s capital, Panjim, and explore the lush wetland and the scenic Mandovi River, also known as ‘the lifeline of India’. Take a leisurely boat cruise to see if you can spot the variety of marine life, fish, and birds.

The canal is also home to over 50 crocodiles, which you can see swimming through the reeds and basking on the banks. If you’re lucky enough to visit between November and February, you might just catch their thrashing courtship displays. For the braver traveller, there’s always the option to explore the river’s mangroves and backwaters from the comfort of a kayak.

Just a half an hour walk away from Dona Paula’s centre is the fantastic Goa Science Centre and Planetarium in Panaji. The museum is a great day trip for families as there’re lot of activities to get involved in.

Visit the Cabo da Rama fort to see the remains of the ancient prison, dried moat and fortress walls. The structure can be found on top of a dramatic cliff face and was named after the Hindu god of Ramayana, Rama.

Goa has a rich heritage that can be explored by visiting the many historical sights; one of the most significant is the Viceroy’s Arch. A 40 minute drive away is the archway that used to welcome visitors into Old Goa

For a day away from the bustling beaches, head to the small town of Cumbarjua near Goa’s capital Panjim to explore the lush wetland and Goa’s scenic Mandovi River. Take a boat tour to see if you can spot the variety of marine life, fish and birds.

Visit the Kerkar Art Complex in Calangute for art, food and entertainment. The small gallery showcases colourful paintings, photographs and sculptures from local artist, Dr Subodh Kerkar as well as guest artists.

Take a day trip to Mollem National Park in the Western Ghats for an adventure in Goa’s 240 square kilometre jungle. Enjoy the peaceful setting as you follow trails through the tropical paradise to see the exotic animals